The XL H1 HD camcorder has three 1/3in 16:9 interlaced CCDs that capture images at 1080i resolution. The camcorder features selectable frame rates of 60i, 30 frame and 24 frame to allow the user to adjust to the assignment at hand and can switch back to SD resolution if needed.

At the 30 frame rate, broadcasters can capture high motion, like sports, with confidence that each frame is captured individually and completely.

The XL H1 HD camcorder is the first model to include Canon's proprietary DIGIC DV II image processor. DIGIC DV II is an image processor that can process both HD and SD video signals as well as still photos, while maintaining the correct color space for each mode.